Former Strictly Come Dancing stars James and Ola Jordan have confirmed they have separated after more than 20 years of marriage.

The former professional dancers were regulars on the show for several series after first featuring in 2006.

The couple in a statement said they were “taking some time apart as we work through very difficult personal challenges”.

“This has been an incredibly painful and emotional journey for us both and it certainly wasn’t an easy decision,” they said in a joint post shared on their Instagram accounts.

The couple said James had moved out the family home some time ago and they “don’t know exactly what the future holds”.

“Right now, more than anything we ask for kindness, empathy and a little privacy as we work through this as a family.”

The couple’s manager Vickie White had prevously said in a statement: “It is with great sadness that I can confirm that James and Ola began a trial separation some time ago

“Their shared priority remains co-parenting their daughter, Ella, and they are committed to putting her wellbeing first.

“They would greatly appreciate your understanding as they navigate this difficult time.”

Ola Jordan won the Open Polish Championship in 1999 when she was 17 years old and became James’ dance partner shortly afterwards in March 2000.

She moved to England a month later and the pair got married in October 2003.

James appeared on Strictly from 2006 to 2013 while Ola appeared on the show until 2015.

Ola’s celebrity partners included wildlife presenter Steve Backshall and Welsh sprinter Iwan Thomas, while James danced with former international gymnast and broadcaster Gabby Logan, as well as The One Show presenter Alex Jones.